You are here:

Flu Basics – What You Need to Know

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. There are also simple, everyday actions that will help increase flu-season health:

Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue in the trash

Wash hands often with soap and water

Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth—germs spread this way

Try to avoid close contact with sick people

If ill, limit contact with others to limit spread of infection

Flu-like symptoms include:

Fever (usually high)

Headache

Extreme fatigue or tiredness

Dry cough

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle aches

Sore throat

Vomiting

Occasional diarrhea

If you are sick, see a doctor. Allison Byrne DO, says that antiviral drugs are available for treating the flu and work best if started within the first two days of symptoms. Seasonal flu is contagious, but if the simple, everyday actions noted above are taken, chances of flu infection are greatly reduced.

The information in Healthy Living Online is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation, or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.